What is thigh lift surgery?
Thigh lift surgery reshapes the thighs by reducing excess skin and fat, resulting in smoother skin and better-proportioned contours of the thighs and lower body.
If fitness and weight control efforts have not achieved your goals for a body that is firmer, more youthful-looking and more proportionate to your overall body image, a surgical lift may be right for you.

What thigh lift surgery can't do
Thigh lifts are not intended strictly for the removal of excess fat. Liposuction alone can remove excess fat deposits where skin has good elasticity and is able to naturally conform to new body contours.
In cases where skin elasticity is poor, a thigh lift along with liposuction may be recommended.

Who is a good candidate for thigh lift surgery?
In general, candidates for a thigh lift are:
•    People whose weight is relatively stable
•    Individuals with excess soft tissue along the inner (medial) thigh region and/or the outer (lateral) thigh
•    Healthy individuals who do not have medical conditions that impair healing or increase risk of surgery
•    Nonsmokers
•    Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic goals for what thigh lift surgery can accomplish
•    Individuals committed to leading a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition and fitness

What should I expect during a consultation for thigh lift surgery?
During your thigh lift surgery consultation be prepared to discuss:
•    Your surgical goals
•    Medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments
•    Current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drug use
•    Previous surgeries

Your plastic surgeon will also:
•    Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
•    Examine and measure your body, including detailed measurements
•    Take photographs for your medical records
•    Discuss your options
•    Recommend a course of treatment
•    Discuss likely outcomes of thigh lift surgery and any risks or potential complications

The success and safety of your procedure depends on your complete candidness during your consultation.
Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon questions. To help, we have prepared a checklist of questions to ask your thigh lift surgeon that you can take with you to your consultation.

It's very important to understand all aspects of your thigh lift procedure. It's natural to feel some anxiety, whether it's excitement for your anticipated new look or a bit of preoperative stress. Don't be shy about discussing these feelings with your plastic surgeon.

What should I expect during my thigh lift recovery?
During your recovery from thigh lift surgery, dressings/bandages may be applied to your incisions following the procedure.
Small, thin tubes may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain excess fluid or blood that may collect.

You will be given specific instructions that may include:
•    How to care for the surgical site(s)
•    Medications to apply or take orally to aid healing
•    Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health
•    When to follow up with your plastic surgeon

Be sure to ask your thigh lift surgeon specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period:
•    Where will I be taken after my surgery is complete?
•    What medication will I be given or prescribed after surgery?
•    Will I have dressings/bandages after surgery? When will they be removed?
•    Are stitches removed? When?
•    When can I resume normal activity and exercise?
•    When do I return for follow-up care?

Thigh lift recovery at home
If you experience any shortness of breath, chest pains or unusual heartbeats, seek medical attention immediately. Should any of these complications occur, you may require hospitalization and additional treatment.
Following your physician's instructions is key to the success of your surgery.
It is important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, swelling, abrasion or motion during the time of healing. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself.